Common Sense Media Review
By Carrie Kingsley
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Warm images and kind elves are a new take on Santa's day.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 3+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In SANTA'S FIRST CHRISTMAS, the elves realize that after all his work leading up to Christmas, Santa never celebrates the holiday himself. He simply sleeps an extra half hour, then starts getting ready for the next year. The elves decide to surprise him with a full Christmas holiday of treats, gifts, delicious food, and fun time spent together. If things go well, maybe this will become his new holiday tradition!
Is It Any Good?
With a charming story, thoughtful elves, and beautiful illustrations, this twist on Santa's celebration is delightful, heartfelt, and thought-provoking. Santa's First Christmas shows the elves' understanding that Santa deserves to enjoy the holiday too, and the steps they take to make him feel appreciated. Barnett's message a subtle, persistent reminder to readers of all ages to be thoughtful and aware of who they can extend the same kindness to in their own lives.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Santa reacted to the elves' suggestions in Santa's First Christmas. Do you think it was hard for him not to go right to work? How would you feel?
Who in your life deserves a day off, with lots of helpers to take care of things?
What other Christmas books have you enjoyed?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Sydney Smith
- Genre : Holiday
- Topics : Holidays
- Character Strengths : Gratitude
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Viking Books for Young Readers
- Publication date : October 22, 2024
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 3 - 7
- Number of pages : 40
- Available on : Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : October 14, 2025
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